Three Towns Forum

Forum Central => The Three Towns Forum => Topic started by: Ian on September 03, 2010, 02:34:19 pm

Title: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 03, 2010, 02:34:19 pm
Check here for any news regarding the system
Title: New Postcard Galleries Added
Post by: DaveR on September 05, 2010, 11:45:52 pm
I've just installed a new feature, which is a series of Photo Galleries. Perhaps you could all have a click and see if the galleries/photos display correctly for you? Please post on here if you have any problems, many thanks. Dave

Galleries Home Page:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media)

Main Albums Page:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media;sa=vua (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media;sa=vua)

Current Albums are:

Modern Photos & Postcards (1980s - Present
Description: Photos and Postcards of the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - from the 1980s to the Present time. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Photos & Postcards (1950s - 1970s)
Description: Photos and Postcards of the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - from the 1950s to the 1970s. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Photos & Postcards (1900 - 1940s)
Description: Photos and Postcards of the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - from the 1900s to the 1940s. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Photos & Postcards (Before 1900)
Description: Photos and Postcards of the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - from before 1900. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

People
Description: Photos of People in the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - can be from any era. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so. Try to add a little bit of information about them if you have it.

Advertiseme­nts
Description: Copies of Advertisements in the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - can be from any era and from any publication. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Press Cuttings & Snippets
Description: Copies of Press Cuttings and Snippets concerning the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - can be from any era. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Maps
Description: Copies of Maps concerning the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay & Conwy area - can be from any era. Members can upload Photos to this Album - please feel free to do so.

Programmes
Description: Mainly Theatre programmes from the local area.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 06, 2010, 03:58:42 pm
Just to keep everyone abreast of what's happening.

We're both beavering away n the following things:  introducing a gallery (which Dave has done - and very nice it is, too :-) ), monitoring new members to try to ensure we don't get spammers - we've already kicked three into touch, introducing mods to allow for YouTube, video and other types of media to be used and also looking into the various tiny niggles that appear with any new package.  Both Dave and I are also logged on under different names so we can test the forum as an ordinary (non-admin) user would - I use Zeke, so that's me, if you see him.

Any problems then please let us know.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 06, 2010, 05:03:48 pm
The gallery is coming along nicely, I've already uploaded 271 old postcards/photos etc and there are quite a few more to come.

I've also added a Gallery button to the blue menu bar at the top of the screen (please note you will need to be logged in to see the Gallery, otherwise you will get an error message). Eventually, members will be able to add in their own Albums/Photos etc, once a few little tweaks in the software are sorted out.

The Gallery also has a nice little feature, whereby any photo etc in it can be displayed in a forum message. Just go to a photo, click on it and a popup box with a larger version appears. Click on 'Details' at the bottom right of the popup box and the proper page will be loaded for that photo. Underneath the photo, you will see some information about it, in the box next to 'BBC embed code', you will see something that looks like this:

Quote
[ smg id=277 ]

Simply copy that and paste into into your message wherever you want the photo to appear and.....


[smg id=277]

 D)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on November 01, 2010, 06:33:45 pm
The Forum now has a new 'front page' at www.threetownsforum.co.uk (http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk). This is intended to improve our Search Engine rankings and also explain a little bit of what the Forum is about to potential members.

Regular users can, of course, bypass this page and get straight to the Forum just by bookmarking:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php)

 $3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 01, 2010, 06:44:12 pm
That new front page looks great, very inviting 8) &well&
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Michael on November 01, 2010, 08:04:13 pm
Bypass it ------BYPASS IT???   Ive just spent ten minutes watching it.   I'd rather bypass the rest of the forum   LOL
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on November 01, 2010, 08:41:22 pm
At the bottom of a comment page is a link that says "Link to calendar".  Being curios I clicked on it and got an error message and the line, "You aren't allowed to modify just any post.".

I am now even more curious as to what is this calendar, can we use it, what's it for? ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on November 01, 2010, 08:57:02 pm
The Calendar operates on a 'need to know' basis.  _))*

Seriously, if you click on the Calender link in the top menu, all is revealed. The link at the bottom of the page is to link a post to a specific date (maybe suitable for the events thread). I know Ian has used it in the past, he might be able to explain more.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on November 01, 2010, 09:05:13 pm
Sorted - thanks!                           *&(   $uk
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 02, 2010, 07:30:52 am
The calendar is one of the great mysteries of SMF  :rage:

We know it can be tied to birthdays, so that if you include your DOB (which is inherently  risky, anyway) it can show your birthday, but it needs a topic of its own in which to function.  As far as I can see, it doesn't seem to have any automatic functions, so it's little more than a table for dates, really, rather than a calendar function which will prompt you to remember events.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on November 02, 2010, 11:46:48 am
Just had a look at the front page, you've done a grand job, its excellent.
Title: HAPPY MOANING 2011
Post by: wrex on December 31, 2010, 09:31:13 am
 ZXZ Happy new year too all forum users and keep up the moaning because if we don't NO one will,its nice too know that our town councillors know that there are some of us watching their every move,decision,cock ups. HAPPY MOANING NEW YEAR. D)
Title: Re: HAPPY MOANING 2011
Post by: Nemesis on December 31, 2010, 08:24:20 pm
Happy New Year to everyone, let's hope it is a peaceful one.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 01, 2011, 12:33:53 am
A very Happy and prosperous New Year to all our members and thanks for making the Three Towns Forum such a success.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 01, 2011, 11:22:52 am
Speaking of which, the Forum Stats for December show record numbers of both Unique Visitors (2,779) and Page Impressions (175,800). Thanks, as always, to everyone who visits and contributes to the Forum.

 $3towns$
Title: Re: HAPPY MOANING 2011
Post by: Blongb on January 01, 2011, 11:24:27 am
Happy New Year Peace and good will to all mankind. I hope you all have a good one.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 01, 2011, 11:37:24 am
One part of the Forum Statistics page that always interests me is the phrase that people type into Google to get to the Forum. Here's the list from December:

three towns forum   107   13.9 %
llandudnolocal   56   7.3 %
www.threetownsforum (http://www.threetownsforum)   53   6.9 %
llandudno forum   36   4.6 %
threetownsforum   27   3.5 %
the three towns forum   21   2.7 %
llandudno local forum   14   1.8 %
grandson of wally bishop waldini   7   0.9 %
threetownsforum.co.uk   6   0.7 %
clock vaults llandudno north wales   5   0.6 %
three towns forum llandudno   4   0.5 %
three towns   4   0.5 %
www.llandudnoforum.com (http://www.llandudnoforum.com)   3   0.3 %
llandudno news today   3   0.3 %
llandudno   3   0.3 %
mount road llandudno 1855   3   0.3 %
view the profile of photos forum.uk powered by smf   3   0.3 %
conwy forum   2   0.2 %
3 towns forum   2   0.2 %
rally cars in llandudno   2   0.2 %
golden goose llandudno   2   0.2 %
the three towns forum - llandudno colwyn bay & conwy   2   0.2 %
pye/s coaches of colwyn bay   2   0.2 %
sandbach s cafe llandudno   2   0.2 %
genealogy llandudno   2   0.2 %
place settings in rhos-on-sea is it closed   2   0.2 %
hoosons chemists   2   0.2 %
genealogy forum uk quiz time   2   0.2 %
three towns llandudno   2   0.2 %
dunphy s corner llandudno   2   0.2 %
local towns forums   2   0.2 %
tour of inside the old grand theatre llandudno   2   0.2 %
rhos on sea swimming pool   2   0.2 %
llandudnoforum   2   0.2 %
rhoslan public housegreat ormes road llandudno   2   0.2 %
three town forum llandudno   2   0.2 %
thoughts of oscar north wales   2   0.2 %
hoosons chemist llandudno   1   0.1 %
threetownsllandudno   1   0.1 %
pink ffloyd in conway   1   0.1 %
ninos rhos on sea   1   0.1 %
the three town forum   1   0.1 %
llanrwst sarcophagus   1   0.1 %
station road colwyn bay past   1   0.1 %
the history of llanrhos   1   0.1 %
llandudno forum three   1   0.1 %
llandudno three towns forum   1   0.1 %
professor beaumont swimmer   1   0.1 %
tchat colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
dixi land colwynbay   1   0.1 %
st george s hall llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno discussion forum   1   0.1 %
canada attorney walter beaumont   1   0.1 %
photos of llandudno circa 60 s   1   0.1 %
introducing upgraded adobe acrobat 2011   1   0.1 %
rhos on sea old photos   1   0.1 %
forum llandudno   1   0.1 %
sam parry music   1   0.1 %
stan jones colwyn bay bass club   1   0.1 %
natus es natandum mortem ex undis rapuisti   1   0.1 %
conwy center   1   0.1 %
llandudno forums   1   0.1 %
threetownsfroum   1   0.1 %
red lion old colwyn for sale   1   0.1 %
llandudno three towmns   1   0.1 %
pier postcrds   1   0.1 %
statistic jas   1   0.1 %
barnacles llandudno   1   0.1 %
living in llandudno   1   0.1 %
whats happening in llandudno in december   1   0.1 %
eddie stobart spotting book   1   0.1 %
rhos on sea   1   0.1 %
colywn bay community   1   0.1 %
surewin bingo   1   0.1 %
3 towns forums   1   0.1 %
kickoff quiz   1   0.1 %
llandudno enthusiast   1   0.1 %
royal artillery club llandudno   1   0.1 %
pendragon gogarth   1   0.1 %
glyn dryhurst   1   0.1 %
old llandudno memories   1   0.1 %
conwy christmas eve parade   1   0.1 %
http three towns forum index   1   0.1 %
hauntings in aberconwy house   1   0.1 %
place settings in rhos-on-sea   1   0.1 %
piloti forums llandudno   1   0.1 %
great orme crazy golf   1   0.1 %
picture houses showing films in burnley lanc s 1960   1   0.1 %
soul pole use my handsome   1   0.1 %
the temperance hotel llandudno   1   0.1 %
www.colwynbaylocal.co.uk (http://www.colwynbaylocal.co.uk)   1   0.1 %
eddie stobart spotters kit   1   0.1 %
penrhyn bay llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno xmas shopping times   1   0.1 %
mayor of conwy   1   0.1 %
“news releases upgrade new adobe acrobat reader 2011”   1   0.1 %
llandudno old fire station   1   0.1 %
conwy llandudno family history   1   0.1 %
live entertainment in llandudno   1   0.1 %
professor beaumont llandudno   1   0.1 %
conwy posts   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay or llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno palladium theatre   1   0.1 %
��������� ��� ��������   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay local   1   0.1 %
accident tonight in llandudno   1   0.1 %
gogledd 1404   1   0.1 %
llandudno the steam packet pub   1   0.1 %
llandudno jones genealogy   1   0.1 %
ivory s old pub in llandudno   1   0.1 %
space station sightings uk   1   0.1 %
newspaper llandudno professor beaumont   1   0.1 %
closed pubs llandudno   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay forum   1   0.1 %
fortes rhos on sea when first opened   1   0.1 %
organ grand thetre llandudno   1   0.1 %
wrc at photos llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudnolocal.com   1   0.1 %
past times llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno enthusiastes   1   0.1 %
h. robinson cleaver   1   0.1 %
���������   1   0.1 %
philip trehearn   1   0.1 %
speakeasy bar llandudno   1   0.1 %
photos great orme crazy golf   1   0.1 %
llandudno weather in september   1   0.1 %
rhoslan pub history   1   0.1 %
arcadia cinema colwyn   1   0.1 %
grand theatre llandudno photos   1   0.1 %
weather-is the wind blowing at llandudno now   1   0.1 %
the clock pub llamdudno   1   0.1 %
threetowns forum   1   0.1 %
watch car rallies   1   0.1 %
old woolworths old colwyn at home   1   0.1 %
christmas in rhos on sea   1   0.1 %
the spanish bar empire hotel llandudno   1   0.1 %
gogledd cymru 1404   1   0.1 %
weather in llandudno over last week   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay derelict pier photos   1   0.1 %
colywn bay postcards   1   0.1 %
pandora llandudno   1   0.1 %
billie canning uk   1   0.1 %
local community forum   1   0.1 %
george brookes llandudno   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay gritting   1   0.1 %
centre for welsh food   1   0.1 %
llandudno in wartime   1   0.1 %
bodlondeb civic centre conwy   1   0.1 %
new buildings north wales   1   0.1 %
statistics jas   1   0.1 %
iss sighting page   1   0.1 %
three towns news   1   0.1 %
happy valley minstrels llandudno   1   0.1 %
the three towns llandudno   1   0.1 %
line sir francis bacon   1   0.1 %
rally fest llandudno photos   1   0.1 %
www.threetownsforum (http://www.threetownsforum)   1   0.1 %
llangwstenin hall near colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
rothsay castle steamer picture   1   0.1 %
llandudno llocal   1   0.1 %
speakeasy llandudno   1   0.1 %
meccano conwy   1   0.1 %
winter gardens llandudno   1   0.1 %
history of colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
why did colwyn bay fail   1   0.1 %
what s llandudno like right now   1   0.1 %
black labrador collie cross   1   0.1 %
sumners llandudno   1   0.1 %
threetowns llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno hospital   1   0.1 %
kings head henry s llandudno   1   0.1 %
the galleon rhos abbey   1   0.1 %
what happened once cinemas were built?   1   0.1 %
pyes coaches   1   0.1 %
great waldini   1   0.1 %
07710 499485   1   0.1 %
������ ���������   1   0.1 %
st enoch rhos on sea   1   0.1 %
minature railway colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
forgotten pubs   1   0.1 %
landudno local   1   0.1 %
memories of colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
the three cinemas colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
memories of rhos on sea   1   0.1 %
pyes coaches llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno registry office   1   0.1 %
��������������� ���������� ����������� ��������� ������� ��������������� ������������   1   0.1 %
tan-y-bryn 1980   1   0.1 %
princess court colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
photos of ship at mostyn in the 1980s   1   0.1 %
international space station sightings   1   0.1 %
spam adobe acrobat 2011   1   0.1 %
new friends llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudolocal   1   0.1 %
colwyn llandadno   1   0.1 %
llandudno enthusiasts   1   0.1 %
three towns chat   1   0.1 %
wyn calvin cardiff   1   0.1 %
dunphy llandudno   1   0.1 %
early cinema north wales   1   0.1 %
mcroze surname   1   0.1 %
old school llanrhos   1   0.1 %
raf club llandudno   1   0.1 %
eirias battle of the bands   1   0.1 %
llandudno archives   1   0.1 %
old photographs glan conwy post office   1   0.1 %
old postcard conwy   1   0.1 %
whats the weather like in llandudno   1   0.1 %
darlah thomas piers of wales   1   0.1 %
llandudno forum co uk   1   0.1 %
llanrhos history   1   0.1 %
robins cafe llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudno cinema closed?   1   0.1 %
martin easdown   1   0.1 %
theatre programmes online   1   0.1 %
llandudno palladium history   1   0.1 %
when did llandudno cinema close -cineworld   1   0.1 %
pictures of inside colwyn bay pier   1   0.1 %
llaqndudnoforum   1   0.1 %
good life llandudno   1   0.1 %
llandudnolocal com   1   0.1 %
principality building society colwyn bay   1   0.1 %
colwyn bay market stall traders   1   0.1 %
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 01, 2011, 12:07:24 pm
Happy new year to all!

I Googled 'Llandudno waffle' and it came back with my own posts  L0L

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 14, 2011, 11:23:57 am
Some more interesting search terms that people have stuck into Google to find their way to the Forum:

This is my all time favourite:
"wd40 to unconsceous sleeping hgv driver"

Others are:
"grand hotel llandudno wall collapse"
"gritters for tractors"
"world recording remianing under water in tank"
"what time does the tide go out in colwyn bay"
"the imperial llandudno basement"
"llandudno banacles"
"yorkies used in royal mail"
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 14, 2011, 01:07:51 pm
I'm amused by the Yorkie reference so had a nosey around and got this:

Maybe someone can invent a yorkie swat that we can use to get rid of the pesky blighters    L0L

These "things" called yorkies seem to be used by postal sorting offices, does anyone know exactly what a yorkie is?   
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on January 14, 2011, 01:58:53 pm
does anyone know exactly what a yorkie is?   
The only Yorkie I've heard of is "Man chocolate". It's not for girls  L0L
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 14, 2011, 02:38:17 pm
does anyone know exactly what a yorkie is?   
The only Yorkie I've heard of is "Man chocolate". It's not for girls  L0L

Tell that to the vicar !!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 14, 2011, 02:48:32 pm
does anyone know exactly what a yorkie is?   

If you don't know, what chance have we got?  L0L
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 14, 2011, 03:32:46 pm
does anyone know exactly what a yorkie is?   
The only Yorkie I've heard of is "Man chocolate". It's not for girls  L0L

That means there ain't any for you then!!!    L0L  _))*  L0L   _))*

Here is the definition from Royal Mail itself.   So now you have it! 

York: A large upright trolley, used for moving sacks and trays of mail. So named because York was the first place to use them.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Paddy on January 14, 2011, 05:50:40 pm
And this is what they look like.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Paddy on January 14, 2011, 05:52:26 pm
forgot to attach the pic in the previous post!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 14, 2011, 06:25:16 pm
So if we see one of these trundling through Llandudno how shall we know that it is "our" Yorkie? Any distinguishing features? _))* _))* _))* ?{}? $lol$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 14, 2011, 06:27:54 pm
Plenty, but none that can be mentioned on the Forum!     *&(
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 15, 2011, 11:03:16 am
 _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on February 28, 2011, 11:59:39 am
I've been doing some more tidying up, so you may have to click through on the 'Show unread posts" button to see what's been moved or merged.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on February 28, 2011, 12:28:33 pm
Noooooooo  :o :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Trojan on February 28, 2011, 04:56:30 pm
Noooooooo  :o :laugh:

 L0L
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2011, 07:26:58 am
Can I remind everyone that personal details of forum members are not to be posted in here, unless the member themself chooses to do it.  This particularly applies to places of work, home addresses, telephones and surnames.  I appreciate some folk may think it's acceptable but it isn't, under any circumstances.

With a forum like this, where some members are beginning to meet each other and learn some details about folk, it can become too easy to assume,  firstly, that everyone knows these details already and - secondly - to forget that this forum can be read by anyone with a computer anywhere in the world.

To recap:  despite the fact that you -as an individual - may be aware of it, never publish the following about any member of the forum:

Surname
Place of work
Home address
Telephone number
[/size]
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 16, 2011, 04:44:34 pm
That's good advice, use the PM system if you really need to exchange personal details.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 16, 2011, 06:11:30 pm
Ian, is it possible to hide members email address's in their profiles by default, I notice many members haven't clicked on the option to hide it.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Jack on March 16, 2011, 07:09:48 pm
Ian, is it possible to hide members email address's in their profiles by default, I notice many members haven't clicked on the option to hide it.

I have tried to hide my email address many times but the system for some reason won't let me.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2011, 07:13:32 pm
This question pops up a lot. When you tick the box, it does hide your email address to other people but you, of course, can still see it!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 16, 2011, 07:14:00 pm
BB:  I'll see if that can be done.. It's a good idea.

Jack: You can always see it, even if you have opted to have it hidden  It's only others who can't.

Ah - Dave posted almost simultaneously :-)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2011, 07:16:38 pm
I can change it so that the box to hide the email address is ticked by default but it involves rewriting part of the registration process.  :o
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on March 16, 2011, 07:18:59 pm
If it ain't broke - don't try fixing it!   D)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 16, 2011, 07:26:24 pm
I have tried to hide my email address many times but the system for some reason won't let me.
Don't worry Jack, your email address is hidden to me  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2011, 07:52:16 pm
I can change it so that the box to hide the email address is ticked by default but it involves rewriting part of the registration process.  :o
It's done.  8) Now...how to get all the existing members' email addresses hidden...?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on March 16, 2011, 07:57:23 pm
OK, I've successfully rewritten the Profile and Memberlist display functions so that no email addresses are visible, apart from the person whose profile it is and us Admins.

 $3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 16, 2011, 11:11:18 pm
Well done Dave  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on March 17, 2011, 02:38:40 pm
Thanks
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on March 21, 2011, 12:32:50 pm
PC Mike Smith has requested that I remove the Policing Issues thread, as he feels that it is not serving the purpose it was set up for. I have reluctantly complied with his request as I thought it provided a useful interface between the Police and the Community. However, he will still be reading the Forum and can also be contacted directly via e-mail at Michael.Smith@nthwales.pnn.police.uk or by ringing 07800 991219.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 21, 2011, 01:33:26 pm
That's a real shame, I thought it was very useful and had hoped for a similar thread to cover other areas  :(   
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 21, 2011, 04:54:35 pm
PC Mike Smith has requested that I remove the Policing Issues thread, as he feels that it is not serving the purpose it was set up for.
What exactly was that purpose  ???
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on March 21, 2011, 05:09:30 pm
Well i would have thought the purpose was as Dave said,

''it provided a useful interface between the Police and the Community.''

We were being informed of what was happening, usually we complain that we do not get told anything about what is going on, it's a pity to lose it!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: brumbob on March 21, 2011, 05:41:25 pm
Well i would have thought the purpose was as Dave said,

''it provided a useful interface between the Police and the Community.''

We were being informed of what was happening, usually we complain that we do not get told anything about what is going on, it's a pity to lose it!
OK, I'll rephrase that, why isn't it serving its purpose
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on March 21, 2011, 09:08:32 pm
Because certain people like to criticise for the sake of it... for no constructive reason.

Mike didn't need to spend time communicating on here, but he tried it, and encountered a high degree of negativity.
That was not the case when he did a similar thing in Penmaenmawr (apparently)

I was hoping that Mike would rise above it, but no.  He must have deemed it a waste of his valuable time.
Personally, if I was him, I would have ignored the 'nay-sayers' and pressed on with the course I believed to be right.
Thats his right.

I hope he now spends his time locking up scumbags...  sadly, we will hear much less about it.




 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Blodyn on March 22, 2011, 09:08:44 am
I agree it's a great shame that the Policing Issues thread has been removed.  Apart from the recent problem, which seemed to have been sorted out, it was indeed providing "a useful interface between the police and the community". 

Thanks for trying, PC Mike.  Would you consider reinstating the thread?  I'm sure that there are many Forum members who appreciated it but just haven't said so. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 22, 2011, 09:18:02 am
I have suggested to him by PM that we can create a new topic, in which only he and the two of us could post, and through which he could post information and responses to requests sent in to him via email and the PM system.  That would seem to address his concerns.  The Policing Issues thread would remain as  a place in  which the topic of general policing could be discussed.  But it's up to Mike, of course.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Blodyn on March 22, 2011, 09:24:10 am
That sounds a good idea, Ian.  It would be a pity to lose this source of information and contact.  I hope you agree, Mike!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bellringer on March 22, 2011, 01:24:29 pm
Only just caught up with events and am saddened at what appears to have happened. I hope PC Mike will not be discouraged by recent events and will hopefully take up Ian's excellent suggestion.

I probably regard myself as 'one of the silent majority' when it comes to  being involved in discussion threads. I enjoy some of what I read but some comments drive me to distraction, and I therefore resist being involved and often do not even bother with the topic.
In this case, I think PC Mike's initiative should have been encouraged as it was an excellent additional system of communication with the general public. After all as someone else has said, we need to know more about what is happening in our localities and we all need to work as a partnership with the police - they will need our help at times and no doubt we may well need their's.

I am tempted to say more, but on the basis that it might contravene the Forum's T & Cs, I will resist.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 30, 2011, 09:06:12 am
Just to remind folks, that if you read text that's a different colour (bluer) than the rest, it means you can click on it.

There are two ways you can place a link in your text:

One way is simply to copy and paste the entire url:


http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=114.msg954#msg954 (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=114.msg954#msg954)

But there's a more elegant way.
Look for text coloured like this (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=114.msg954#msg954)/  That means it's a hyperlink and will redirect you to the destination url without having to print the entire URL in full.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 30, 2011, 10:46:08 am
I've merged several older topics in the Local into a single thread: Tourist developments (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=161.0) which should make it easier for visitors to find what they're looking for.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 19, 2011, 03:17:44 pm
There is currently a problem at our Hosting Company and users may experience delays in accessing the Forum. We have deployed a man with a large hammer to rectify the problem. :rage:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 20, 2011, 12:38:18 am
No, can't be... I haven't said a word against the Freemasons for ages!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 20, 2011, 07:51:18 am
Quote
No, can't be... I haven't said a word against the Freemasons for ages!

 :twoface:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on April 21, 2011, 06:42:13 pm
So why have we lost a load of pictures from some posts?  The name Photbucket seems to appear as having removed them.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on April 21, 2011, 08:01:52 pm
So why have we lost a load of pictures from some posts?  The name Photbucket seems to appear as having removed them.
Photobucket is a photo hosting website, obviously they must be having a few problems.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Trojan on April 21, 2011, 08:05:59 pm
Seems to be working fine for me.  :D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on May 16, 2011, 06:32:13 pm
Eagle eyed members will have noticed that a couple of minor changes have been made to the Forum.

Besides each post, the Post Count, Rank and Stars information has been removed, with the Membership now simply divided into Members and Admins. The idea behind this is to remove a problem often found on Forums, whereby newer members are unwilling to post or disagree with someone they perceive as a senior member (based upon their number of posts).

As I've often said, all views and opinions are welcome here and we want to encourage as many people as possible to join in.  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on May 16, 2011, 06:45:30 pm
Perhaps another system change should be the search function.
It seems to be 'case sensitive' .. and also the heirarchy in which it operates seems to function oddly.
A few problems with this recently, where I had not used a capital letter in the word... but then when I amended it, the item was found


Another example, I was searching for the thread about Llandudno Hotels, (and it wasn't in any of the sections I expected), so I searched... and still couldn't find it.
Still can't find it...

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on May 16, 2011, 07:33:02 pm
Perhaps another system change should be the search function.
I have just modified the Search facility. Try it again:

http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=search (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=search)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on May 16, 2011, 11:25:52 pm
Whatever you did behind the scenes, seems to have improved the search functionality.

Good work, that man,    Y^^Y Y^^Y
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on May 17, 2011, 11:02:30 am
Eagle eyed members will have noticed that a couple of minor changes have been made to the Forum.

Besides each post, the Post Count, Rank and Stars information has been removed, with the Membership now simply divided into Members and Admins. The idea behind this is to remove a problem often found on Forums, whereby newer members are unwilling to post or disagree with someone they perceive as a senior member (based upon their number of posts).

As I've often said, all views and opinions are welcome here and we want to encourage as many people as possible to join in.  :)
Well done-- I have always thought it was a daft idea !!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on August 02, 2011, 08:16:15 am
Please note that at some point in the next day or so the forum will be taken off line.  This is so we can upgrade the forum to the new version, which is necessary as SMF no longer support the current version. 

The forum will be offline for about 10 minutes, and, when you return, it will look different but it will also be a more efficient system. Thanks for your patience.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2011, 10:44:27 am
The Forum Software has had a major upgrade to the latest version this morning. As a consequence, it now looks a bit different but essentially functions in the same way. All Members should be able to login and post as normal.

Current Issues:
The Photo Gallery is currently unavailable.
YouTube links etc will not automatically display in posts.

We are currently working on these issues and hope to have them rectified within the next day or so. If you discover any other issues, please let us know.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2011, 11:11:19 am
The Photo Gallery has now been successfully reinstalled. It can be found under the 'media' link at the top of the screen. I will probably change it to 'Photo Gallery' when I get a minute.
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?action=media)

The automatic display of YouTube video has been re-enabled.

If you spot anything else not working as it should, please let us know.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Blodyn on August 02, 2011, 11:29:41 am
I see that the numbers of posts are being shown again.  I think members agreed that it was better when these were turned off. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2011, 11:44:45 am
I see that the numbers of posts are being shown again.  I think members agreed that it was better when these were turned off.
Your wish is my command...  ;D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Blodyn on August 02, 2011, 12:10:17 pm
That's quick work.   $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 16, 2011, 07:06:58 am
A blip at the hosting company meant that the Forum has been offline for a few hours. It's all back up and running now and everything should be fine.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 30, 2011, 07:02:12 am
The Forum was unavailable overnight due to 'adverse server issues' at our hosting company. Should all be fine again now.  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on August 30, 2011, 07:45:05 am
It's only the Midnight Cowboys who will have missed it - I was warmly tucked up in bed!   :D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on August 30, 2011, 08:02:22 am
Yorkie, don't you have to get up in the night once or twice at your age?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 30, 2011, 01:28:22 pm
The Forum was unavailable overnight due to 'adverse server issues' at our hosting company. Should all be fine again now.  :)
I'm told there may still be occasional problems throughout the day until the problem is sorted out.  :rage:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on August 30, 2011, 02:00:48 pm
Yorkie, don't you have to get up in the night once or twice at your age?

Yes - more than once or twice.   I really should keep those condoms on the bedside table!  But it is difficult lugging a box of 100 around especially the size I need!   L0L
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on August 30, 2011, 03:42:48 pm
 $donald$ $donald$ $donald$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 10, 2011, 09:29:11 am
The 'What's On' section has been modified so that new events will be automatically added from CCBC's events database via an RSS Feed. I think this will be a very useful feature to keep us informed of what's going on locally and thanks must go to Simon Jones at CCBC for acting upon my suggestion re making an RSS Feed available.

I'm also thinking about getting rid of the news items that are automatically added to the 'All The News That's Fit To Print...' section, as they often seem to just duplicate topics that we have on here anyway:
http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/board,27.0.html (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/board,27.0.html)

Any thoughts?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on October 10, 2011, 10:52:05 am
You might as well make poor Nigel redundant.
A suitable severance package is in order, I feel.
 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on October 10, 2011, 11:24:53 am
Nigel is a pain, I know he's there but I never read a word he says.   "Mark as Read" after I've looked at everything else I want to.! WWW
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on October 10, 2011, 11:54:28 am
I agree it's a waste of space DaveR.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 10, 2011, 12:29:03 pm
Ok, I'll knock it off.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on October 10, 2011, 02:23:56 pm
Does anybody know who Nigel really is?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 10, 2011, 02:56:11 pm
It's a Bot that I created, Bri....

"A bot (short for "robot") is a program that operates as an agent for a user or another program or simulates a human activity."
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on October 10, 2011, 04:35:46 pm
Does anybody know who Nigel really is?

He's not sure himself on some occasions!    _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on October 10, 2011, 04:57:10 pm
It's a Bot that I created, Bri....

"A bot (short for "robot") is a program that operates as an agent for a user or another program or simulates a human activity."

So in plain english, DaveR is Nigel?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on October 10, 2011, 05:49:05 pm
Bri.... I am the first to admit that I am a novice at the computing game.. but..

A bot (or robot), is an automatic programme which runs around the internet, picking things up, and dropping them elsewhere.
I get 'bots' invading my own website for my shop every day... and they look like real people or customers, but they are not.

So, Nigel the News Bot is picking up snippets of news, and throwing them on to the Forum, ... Dave and Ian will be unaware of the content until they actually sign in and take a look...    Nigel is not Dave!   
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on October 10, 2011, 06:29:03 pm
 $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 12, 2011, 09:46:38 am
The Ugg Boots spammer has been removed and given the 'boot'. Thanks for letting us know.  ;)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on October 12, 2011, 10:34:43 am
Where am I going to get my Ugg boots from now???  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on October 12, 2011, 11:57:52 am
Well I'm gutted I was well looking forward to my dodgy Ugg boots  _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on October 12, 2011, 04:28:10 pm
What a heel to make such a soleless move!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 23, 2011, 09:15:05 am
I've split all the rally related posts into a separate thread, called 'Cambrian Rally/Rally GB'.  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on December 12, 2011, 11:20:25 am
When you get notification of a Private Message (PM) via email, please remember that you cannot just hit Reply and respond by Email. You must log into the Forum, and read/reply to the message there. If you try to reply by email, it will not reach the recipient, it just bounces straight back to me (and this happens several times a week).

I have now altered the notifications, so that you have to log in to the Forum to read the PM, rather than it being displayed in the email.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on December 12, 2011, 12:02:00 pm
I bet you have seen some interesting ones Dave! (wink wink) .... and some downright boring ones.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on December 12, 2011, 09:49:01 pm
I bet you have seen some interesting ones Dave! (wink wink) .... and some downright boring ones.
The latter...
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 26, 2011, 10:42:17 am
I'm doing some housekeeping with the topics and threads within them which might result in some odd findings when you click on Show New Messages for the next day or so. It's simply to avoid unnecessary duplication of topics so newcomers to the forum can find relevant topics more easily. Ta.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on December 27, 2011, 12:24:04 pm
Erm....what is the Buddy thing next to who's online? 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on December 27, 2011, 12:40:02 pm
Erm....what is the Buddy thing next to who's online?
I don't see anything...? Have you been on the sherry again?  ;D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on December 27, 2011, 12:50:10 pm
23 Guests, 3 Users (0 Buddies) See it's under the Who's online.  Pffft Sherry, Baileys first then Sherry  :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on December 27, 2011, 12:56:05 pm
23 Guests, 3 Users (0 Buddies) See it's under the Who's online.  Pffft Sherry, Baileys first then Sherry  :laugh:
That's odd, it doesn't show for me. Just says '23 Guests, 3 Users'. I wonder if Ian's been fiddling.  ???
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on December 27, 2011, 12:59:01 pm
Hehe well I am special Dave.  Does anyone else see it?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on December 27, 2011, 09:42:57 pm
yep i see it pendragon and I'm only on black grouse.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 28, 2011, 09:03:58 am
Quote
That's odd, it doesn't show for me. Just says '23 Guests, 3 Users'. I wonder if Ian's been fiddling.

Nope.  I think Pen's activated the 'add to buddy option' in her profile.  If anyone clicks on any else's avatar, they can add them as buddies, if they wish. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 28, 2011, 03:07:51 pm
Using my iPad it's very easy to accidentally clic on the adverts, I hope it does not cause the forum any problems with the advertisers! (I seem to recall some problem some time ago)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on December 28, 2011, 07:55:47 pm
No need to worry, ME, no such problem exists now.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on December 28, 2011, 09:35:58 pm
Oh that's good $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 01, 2012, 08:53:07 am
Happy New year!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 01, 2012, 11:55:35 am
And to you and all forum members
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 15, 2012, 09:33:19 am
I have removed Pentan's post about Jimmy Saville.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: martin on January 15, 2012, 09:42:12 am
Good, this forum is no place for things like that. ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 15, 2012, 01:10:58 pm
I have removed Pentan's post about Jimmy Saville.

Thankyou.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on February 08, 2012, 10:51:38 am
I have made a change to the Registration Agreement, requesting that all new members signing up make at least one post in this thread to introduce themselves to the other Forum Members:

http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,1413.msg42360.html (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,1413.msg42360.html)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on February 08, 2012, 11:50:52 am
Would you consider members also declare their real names, DaveR?

Obviously, it does not bother you and I.

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on February 08, 2012, 12:25:59 pm
That's an interesting idea, but so many people have similar names locally that it would soon get a bit confusing, I think! Not to mention the fact that anyone could give a false name and who would be any the wiser? What do other members think?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on February 08, 2012, 04:40:41 pm
It seems normal policy with most (if not all) Forums for the contributors to benefit from being able to remain anonymous.   Even those who operate Forums and Blogs seem to prefer this option, such as Oscar or Disgruntled from Croydon!

I just wonder how many Bri Roberts and Dave Roberts we have in the area, together with Owens, Williams, Jones and the plethora of common Welsh names.  Don't think naming would work, altough it would be helpful to know sometimes.   

I see no reason why the Forum Admin should not, if circumstances arose, politely ask a contributors name and retain it privately - but then I cannot see such a need arising!

As an aside, I have never met (as far as I know) Bri or Dave Roberts, don't care if I ever do meet them, but probably would enjoy it if I ever did.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on February 08, 2012, 05:17:28 pm
Another suggestion would be to upload a recent photograph of oneself as an avatar.

I would not have a problem with that either. Z@@
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on February 08, 2012, 06:20:02 pm
Do you want the system to fail completely Bri?     _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pendragon on February 09, 2012, 12:02:12 am
Oh hang on there Bri.  I am not the most photogenic of people and there would be not a chance in hell of me putting a recent photo on the forum as my avatar  :D


Oh what the hell
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on February 10, 2012, 08:12:09 pm
Thanks to all the existing Members who have contributed to Introduction thread. Please keep them coming.

It's slightly disappointing that none of the people who have joined since I added the thread have added in a post about themselves! I've added a line into the Registration Agreement that says:

"We ask that when you join the Forum, you make a short post in the 'Say Hello here if you're a new Member' thread in the 'Welcome' section, telling us just a little bit about yourself."

That seems entirely reasonable, surely?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on May 29, 2012, 10:06:07 pm
Eagle eyed Forum Members may have noticed some Facebook icons appearing around the Forum. It is now possible to Like or Share topics or individual posts on Facebook simply by clicking the icon by the relevant topic/post.

It is also possible to now login to the Forum from your Facebook account without needing to sign up separately. This feature still needs a little bit of tweaking, however. I shall make a post underneath this one from my Facebook account to demonstrate it.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: david.roberts.73700136 on May 29, 2012, 10:07:51 pm
This is an example of posting from my Facebook account without needing to setup a separate login for the Forum. There are still a few bugs to be tweaked, namely it doesn't display your Profile pic by Default and it shows a number after your name. Everything else works though.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on May 31, 2012, 12:18:02 pm
This Facebook comment box seems to have screwed up the page format on my iPad, anyone else having a similar problem?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on May 31, 2012, 12:36:56 pm
This Facebook comment box seems to have screwed up the page format on my iPad, anyone else having a similar problem?
Try it now, I've disabled that particular feature.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on May 31, 2012, 12:39:27 pm
Yes, it's fine now.
Thanks Dave.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on July 01, 2012, 07:27:45 pm
User 'aharon ' is a Spammer and has been banned.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on July 24, 2012, 05:24:59 pm
I'm doing some housekeeping in 'Ask a Local' which involves merging several topics which have only one or two postings. Thanks for your patience.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on August 02, 2012, 03:48:17 pm
Slight problem with the Forum software this morning that I have now hopefully resolved.

The Unread Posts feature will have been wiped clean, I'm afraid, as part of fixing the problem.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on August 02, 2012, 11:45:16 pm
Slight problem with the Forum software this morning that I have now hopefully resolved.

The Unread Posts feature will have been wiped clean, I'm afraid, as part of fixing the problem.

Dave, just for your info, The unread posts feature was exactly as it should have been.
All the new ones for today were listed, plus previous days ones which I had never bothered to read were present.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on October 15, 2012, 07:42:20 am
I'm doing some tidying up, so you may see some 'new' topics which are not actually new;  they're simply merged with other, similar and older ones. Thanks for your patience.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on October 15, 2012, 04:49:02 pm
We've been experiencing some issues with out hosting provider this afternoon, leading to inaccessibility for a little time.  Hopefully, things are now back to normal.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on October 31, 2012, 05:44:21 pm
User 'themaks' has been banned for spamming the Forum.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 24, 2012, 07:17:42 am
From Dave and me:

Merry Christmas to everyone!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 05, 2013, 08:39:25 am
User YasYap has been banned for spamming. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 11, 2013, 08:45:08 am
I'm starting another round of tidying and housekeeping, so expect lots of unread messages until the system catches up with itself. Apologies for inconvenience.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on May 18, 2013, 10:51:45 am
....... retructruerd ..........


The forum also has an excellent "spell checker" !    _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 19, 2013, 04:17:29 pm
The Useful Links page we maintain for everyone's convenience has now been updated and restructured to make it easier to use. It's also been locked so only Admins can add to the topic to make it easier to navigate.  Please add any new links in another topic, from where the Admins will pick them up. Thanks.

http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,325.msg9853.html#msg9853 (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,325.msg9853.html#msg9853)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on August 29, 2013, 07:46:46 am
Overnight spammer has had all topics deleted.

One request, folks:  could I ask that if you read a topic which is obviously spam you do not reply to it? It's a little trickier to find and delete that topic if it has an extra post in.

Ta!

Ian
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on August 29, 2013, 07:48:23 am
Well done Ian!  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 02, 2013, 10:09:12 am
A day late, but it's time to wish the Forum a Happy Birthday...three years old on Sept 1st.

 <:<:<:<

&well&

$bounce$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on September 02, 2013, 10:16:48 am
(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-greet002.gif) (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys.php)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on September 02, 2013, 10:21:32 am
Happy Birthday to the forum, you have given me many hours of interest and enjoyment.  $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 02, 2013, 10:24:26 am
Penblwyd Hapus to the forum!   +}}{-- :__)+ $3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 02, 2013, 10:25:19 am
I should have added a big THANK YOU to all the members who contribute and make the Forum what it is.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on September 02, 2013, 10:49:02 am
I should have added a big THANK YOU to all the members who contribute and make the Forum what it is.  $good$

All the World's a stage, and all the people in it merely players!

Thanks for giving us the stage so that we are able to perform!
 $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Trojan on September 02, 2013, 05:51:44 pm
All the World's a stage

Oh no it isn't!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: white rabbit on September 02, 2013, 08:01:20 pm
Happy Birthday to the



forum! $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Trojan on September 02, 2013, 08:08:47 pm
Pen blwydd hapus.  +}}{--
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on September 02, 2013, 08:24:42 pm
3 years?  It seems longer somehow........ I would close it down.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on September 02, 2013, 09:56:04 pm
feels like it,s been going for a lifetime, happy returns
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on September 01, 2014, 05:33:20 pm
Today is the Three Towns Forum's FOURTH BIRTHDAY.

Doesn't time fly . . . .. Party Anyone?
 <:<:<:< $bounce$ +}}{-- :__)+ $drink$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on September 01, 2014, 06:27:04 pm
Congratulations to the best forum I've ever been on... :D.....and  ££$   for the future..... $good$ $good$ $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on September 01, 2014, 07:24:09 pm
Happy birthday Forum!  $3towns$ $cofffee$ $bounce$ +}}{-- :__)+ <:<:<:< <:<:<:<
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: white rabbit on September 01, 2014, 07:52:54 pm
Happy Birthday Three Towns - keep it up ££$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on September 01, 2014, 10:44:21 pm
many many happy returns
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on November 10, 2014, 03:53:56 pm
We had a slight outage for a few hours this afternoon, due to a problem at our Hosting Company. Apologies for the disruption in service.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on November 10, 2014, 04:03:09 pm
We had a slight outage for a few hours this afternoon, due to a problem at our Hosting Company. Apologies for the disruption in service.

I want a refund!  :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hardknox on November 10, 2014, 04:04:47 pm
glad your back on, i miss me daily fix of local news
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on November 10, 2014, 04:13:13 pm
We had a slight outage for a few hours this afternoon, due to a problem at our Hosting Company. Apologies for the disruption in service.

I want a refund!  :laugh:
You're welcome to a full refund of membership fees for the year.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 10, 2014, 04:20:28 pm
+ 150% of whatever you've paid...
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on November 10, 2014, 04:45:15 pm
glad your back on, i miss me daily fix of local news

Yeah I could have missed much more things about what Muslims are supposedly upto in East London in a topic emtitled 'What's LLANDUDNO like right now'  &shake&
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on November 10, 2014, 05:55:23 pm
I could not get on for the last hour?...did I hear refunds...Securicor armoured truck on the way... ;) ;)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on November 10, 2014, 05:58:37 pm
Eeeek! A whole afternoon without the forum  :o
I got a message saying I was FORBIDDEN and like Gwynant assumed I was in trouble.
Forbidden from the forum......a fate worse than death!  :o
Glad you are back.  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on November 10, 2014, 06:00:06 pm
A few more problems this evening. If the Forum does disappear or come up with an error message, just give it an hour or so and try again.  $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on November 13, 2014, 08:01:49 pm
had no pc for 3 days so only just getting up to date with things, I have not been a member of the forum as long as fester so just send me half of what you have given him.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on November 13, 2014, 08:57:12 pm
had no pc for 3 days so only just getting up to date with things, I have not been a member of the forum as long as fester so just send me half of what you have given him.
_))* _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 14, 2014, 08:08:04 am
 _))* _))* _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on November 14, 2014, 08:42:40 am
 _))*  _))*  _))*  _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on November 14, 2014, 11:46:46 am
 _))* _))* _))* _))* _))*     (Any advance on 5??)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on November 24, 2014, 03:55:56 pm
Regrettably, we have had to remove a couple of posts recently.  This was because they contravened our Ts and Cs which include not using copyright material without consent and posting potentially libellous statements.

This forum has been a friendly and well run online meeting place for people interested in the Three Towns area for nearly 5 years but it cannot become a place for personal agendas, vendettas or campaigns - simply because that would destroy it. We both try our best to ensure that it remains the only objective and disinterested source of discussion about the Three Towns anywhere, and we want to keep it that way. Please understand we can't allow anything that would damage that aim. Thanks for your understanding.

Dave and Ian
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on November 24, 2014, 06:41:14 pm
I take it that the risky cartoon has gone then?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 14, 2014, 10:37:42 am
We're currently getting a high number of application requests - 30 this morning alone - almost certainly because of the success of the bot the other day.  Temporarily, the registration system has been changed to make it extremely difficult for non-locals to register. It might be better if you use the 'keep me logged in' setting on the forum when you enter, so you don't have to endure the rather complex captcha we've temporarily inserted.  Hopefully, this will die down, shortly.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on December 14, 2014, 01:18:36 pm
That would be fine if I could stay logged in, my system shuts the whole thing down and I have to re-log in even if I have only been off for a few minutes.
Not had any problems logging in though......I get plenty of practice !
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on December 14, 2014, 04:45:28 pm
I obviously did not have sufficient education as I just cannot understand the last part of Ian's signature!   :D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 14, 2014, 05:27:16 pm
Quote
I obviously did not have sufficient education

 _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 09, 2015, 03:34:58 pm
Our hosts were subjected to a DDOS today - again. Which is why we were off-line for about five hours this morning.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 12, 2015, 07:14:29 am
Since your post, there does not seem to have been any further postings by anyone!  Is there still a glitch or am I just not receiving them?   All other systems working as normal.   $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 12, 2015, 08:39:28 am
There have been several, although none overnight.  We're back to normal now.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on January 19, 2015, 05:42:00 pm
Like and Dislike buttons

Following a suggestion by Hollins and others we're introducing a system whereby you can post in favour or against anyone's posting.

Each member will have "Like" and "Dislike" buttons under their avatar, and a third "Reputation" link will display an aggregate score. The way it will work is simple.  The number of Dislikes will be subtracted from the number of Likes, leaving a figure which will indicate the poster's overall score, which will be the figure displayed.

We hope to get this up and running in the next couple of days.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 19, 2015, 05:58:53 pm
You knew that you would get a reply from me!

I think the idea, whilst appearing to be a good idea, is flawed.  I think it will stem active debate and particularly where a subject is a controvetial and where some people have firm or strong opinions.
Just my thought.
Like
Dislike
Tick as appropriate!
 ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 19, 2015, 09:37:22 pm
Like and Dislike buttons

Following a suggestion by Hollins and others we're introducing a system whereby you can post in favour or against anyone's posting.

Each member will have "Like" and "Dislike" buttons under their avatar, and a third "Reputation" link will display an aggregate score. The way it will work is simple.  The number of Dislikes will be subtracted from the number of Likes, leaving a figure which will indicate the poster's overall score, which will be the figure displayed.

We hope to get this up and running in the next couple of days.

Don't you think this might lead to more confrontation between members?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on January 19, 2015, 10:18:01 pm
I would worry that a dislike option might deter people from posting. I was hoping that being able to like someone's post might encourage them to post more and encourage other members to post things if they can see it is going down well.

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on January 20, 2015, 12:30:35 am
The 'like / dislike' proposal is an unwelcome one, and will (in my experience) lead to squabbles and bad feeling.

I use ADVFN and other Forum's where the use of 'like / dislike' generates reams of irrelevant posts, where people seek to find out who voted them down, and for what reason.
Some of these squabbles go on for ages, serve no purpose and create paranoia in some cases.

The other thing I have against it is that it gives the ability to 'slag off' someone's efforts anonymously.
This Forum has always been a good place for open debate, and even if it gets a little heated at times, we usually know who it is we are talking to.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 20, 2015, 07:22:52 am
Personally, I was looking to find a system where only 'Likes' would be registered, as I've always disliked the 'Don't like' option, but it doesn't exist as far as we can tell.

Anyhow, please keep the thoughts coming as it's helping us to decide whether or not to implement the idea.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 20, 2015, 07:23:57 am
Quote
Don't you think this might lead to more confrontation between members?

How d'you mean, Nem?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on January 20, 2015, 08:04:45 am
I don't quite see how the dislike option fits in. To me it is more that you disagree with a post in which case you can reply with your own views but to dislike a post?
Last night's post from The Medz was a good example of being able to like something. I wanted to say I liked his photos but this would have meant adding a boring post of me saying just that.
However if The Medz gets zero reaction he might think there is no interest so why bother.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 20, 2015, 08:32:23 am
I like the idea of a like button, being used to Facebook I automatically look for it when I see something I like. As others have said I believe a dislike button would not be a good idea, probably why Facebook does not have it?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 20, 2015, 08:42:27 am
For my part, I post either some information that I think folk will be interested in, or a point for discussion or my honest reply regarding any debate that interests me.  Whether others like them or not is immaterial, although I do hope that my opinions are respected, and received in the spirit in which they are made.
 ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 20, 2015, 08:47:24 am
I've added in a 'Like' button to all Posts. It is not possible to dislike a Post, so no worries about it being used in a negative fashion.  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on January 20, 2015, 09:11:34 am
Quote
Don't you think this might lead to more confrontation between members?

How d'you mean, Nem?

Exactly as others have put their thoughts--------a like button would be fine, but you only need someone who feels somewhat out of sorts to jab the 'dislike' button having looked at let's say --Hugo's wonderful walks, or Hollins super pics of her travels and the person who goes to so much trouble to please and entertain us would be offended and stop posting. My attitude to certain subjects like sport is--I know nothing about it, so I don't read it--. For me to say that I dislike the subject would be an insult to the person who takes the trouble to post. The same applies to things that let us say Hollins and I post on-Craft etc-- Most men aren't interested, but hopefully some of our lady members enjoy same.

Hope this answers your question Ian  ;D
Nem.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 20, 2015, 09:27:54 am
I've added in a 'Like' button to all Posts.

Except poor old Yorkies!   L0L  L0L  L0L

Suits me Sir, suits me!    _))*  _))*  _))*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on January 20, 2015, 10:00:06 am
I've added in a 'Like' button to all Posts.

Except poor old Yorkies!   L0L  L0L  L0L

Suits me Sir, suits me!    _))*  _))*  _))*
I don't wish to dampen your persecution complex but...the 'Like' button doesn't appear on your own posts, Yorkie.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 20, 2015, 10:31:07 am
Thanks for that, I was hoping to congratulate myself a few times on each post!  Foiled again!   ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on January 20, 2015, 12:15:48 pm
I would like to put on record that I DISLIKED that post...... (but I have decided not to mention it)  :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Merddin Emrys on January 27, 2015, 07:31:37 am
I can no longer see how many likes that members have, is that deliberate?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 27, 2015, 12:04:21 pm
Yes.  We're trying different settings to see what works best.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 27, 2015, 09:08:50 pm
The system wasn't broken, worked well, so why change it?    ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 28, 2015, 07:01:03 am
Quote
The system wasn't broken, worked well, so why change it?

I thought you weren't in favour of the system at all?

Quote
My answer is quite simple, I was always taught never to play with buttons, so I won't.
.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on January 28, 2015, 09:17:01 am
I meant go back to the normal Forum without the "like" business!   ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 28, 2015, 10:00:41 am
We introduced this because some folk who post images aren't sure if they should continue, partly because of a lack of feedback. As we know a lot of people might browse and enjoy the images but don't post their appreciation, and we though a simple button is easier to click than making an entire posting. It's all a bit trial and error, I'm afraid.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on January 28, 2015, 10:26:32 am
I posted yesterday about council mergers but my post did not receive the like logo.

Why was that, Ian?

In fact, this post does not have one either (so far).
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 28, 2015, 10:30:15 am
You can't see your own, Bri.  Only others can.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on January 28, 2015, 10:47:24 am
So how does the person know if people appreciate their post? I'm  ???
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on January 28, 2015, 11:32:13 am
If someone 'likes' your post it will show to the right of the Like button for others and in the bottom of the post in question, where you'll be able to see it.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on January 28, 2015, 12:00:56 pm
Ahhh you see that's what happens when nobody likes any of my posts I never have any likes to see  :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on January 28, 2015, 12:39:14 pm
I cannot see any likes for either of born2run posts even though I like the content of his posts this morning.

I am scared of asking what that may mean, Ian?

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on January 28, 2015, 02:33:24 pm
Conspiracy   L0L
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on February 02, 2015, 03:16:47 pm
Fester, I see you have not liked anything. Do you not approve of the like button or have you not found anything of interest yet?
Even Yorkie has liked a few things after saying he wouldn't!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on February 02, 2015, 03:40:59 pm
Fester, I see you have not liked anything.

Do you mean on this forum or just in general life?  >>>
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on February 02, 2015, 04:57:06 pm

Even Yorkie has liked a few things after saying he wouldn't!

How do you know that I have "liked" a few things?   I thought "liking" was a secret vote!
 ZXZ
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on February 02, 2015, 05:03:35 pm
It is on your profile. Likes given and likes received.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Yorkie on February 02, 2015, 06:27:54 pm
It is on your profile. Likes given and likes received.

Looked at all my Profile and can't see a thing.  Nor on yours either! Not that I am particularly bothered about such matters.
 Z**
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on February 02, 2015, 08:46:16 pm
Hollins, I'm not interested in the 'Like' button, as I said at the time.

If I felt sufficiently moved to say that I liked something, I would rather tell someone, or use a smiley.  Thus...  $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on March 26, 2015, 09:16:13 am
Due to a small technical problem, the Forum was unable to be viewed by Guests for a short period yesterday. Our apologies for this, the problem has now been fixed.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on March 27, 2015, 11:27:50 am
For Members' information, a user called 'Adhesif' registered yesterday, made a couple of posts and then asked for his account to be deleted. We have deleted his account, as requested.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on March 27, 2015, 07:39:03 pm
For Members' information, a user called 'Adhesif' registered yesterday, made a couple of posts and then asked for his account to be deleted. We have deleted his account, as requested.

Glad I read his posts !
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on March 31, 2015, 10:52:21 am
Regrettably, we had a situation yesterday morning whereby 2 members chose to post information pertaining to the personal addresses of other Members. The offending posts were swiftly removed by the Admin Team, but this sort of behaviour is clearly unacceptable and a clear breach of our T&Cs:

"you will not post any material which is false, defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, vulgar, hateful, harassing, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, invasive of a person's privacy, adult material, or otherwise in violation of any United Kingdom, United States Federal or International law."

We cannot allow the Forum to be used as a vehicle for personal attacks and feuds. As such, we have no alternative but to cancel the memberships of both Trojan and Yorkie.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Admin Team on April 01, 2015, 10:52:49 am
We've been asked to remove "every post that has been posted by any member of the Forum where an unsubstantiated allegation is made against (Yorkie), either under (His) real name or any nom de plume that has been used by (Him)."  In light of that we have removed the entire Internet Trolls topic and would be grateful if anyone who notes any unsubstantiated allegations against Yorkie would contact us in the normal way.

Thanks for your understanding.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on April 01, 2015, 11:39:02 am
We've been asked to remove "every post that has been posted by any member of the Forum where an unsubstantiated allegation is made against (Yorkie), either under (His) real name or any nom de plume that has been used by (Him)."  In light of that we have removed the entire Internet Trolls topic and would be grateful if anyone who notes any unsubstantiated allegations against Yorkie would contact us in the normal way.

Thanks for your understanding.


Is this another April Fool's joke?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 01, 2015, 11:55:28 am
No.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on April 01, 2015, 12:41:39 pm
I have one

For a long time people have said they are 'Not for girls'

This isn't true, my girlfriend ate one last week

 $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on April 01, 2015, 04:11:08 pm
I have one

For a long time people have said they are 'Not for girls'

This isn't true, my girlfriend ate one last week

 $good$


She's not called Ting Tong by any chance?  :laugh:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: born2run on April 01, 2015, 04:27:02 pm
 $angry$ I want a refund!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Karen and Derek on April 04, 2015, 11:40:25 am
Hollins, I'm not interested in the 'Like' button, as I said at the time.

If I felt sufficiently moved to say that I liked something, I would rather tell someone, or use a smiley.  Thus...  $good$

We like that Fester.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Michael on July 14, 2015, 08:04:14 pm
   Not too sure I am in the correct thread. However here goes.
   I have had a most unusual day today. Mainly because I took part in something I have never ever in my life done before.
   By appointment I had to abandon the golf to the loving care of the "honesty golfer." Return to my flat by 2 p.m to meet a research director and lighting sound and camera people with all their considerable gear to trundle upstairs.
   One hour to set up lighting and sound. Then two hours of my being seated and questioned by the researcher whilst the cameras rolled.
  The end product will be a DVD or similar. And what, you may well ask, is it all about. It was about Peter Moore, a nasty multiple murderer who was described by the judge that locked him up for life as the most dangerous man alive in Britan. I just happened to know him. He came from Kinmel Bay.
   So what? I can hear you say. Well its all the fault of the forum. Yes, this forum. As far as I can gather there was a post on the forum a couple of years ago writing something about Peter Moore. I put in a reply saying I used to know him. And this research company who specialise in producing long expensive DVDs about mass murderers were starting research into Peter More, googled his name and our very own forum came up and through that they got on to me.
  So, I had no need to go along with them, but I must admit I enjoyed taking part in a long interview like this, But its all you forum people's fault.
 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on July 14, 2015, 08:26:32 pm
Flippin' 'eck Mike. I hope this was kosher !
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on July 14, 2015, 10:49:00 pm
I,ll get your autograph next time i see you Mike.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on July 15, 2015, 09:39:29 am
   Not too sure I am in the correct thread. However here goes.
   I have had a most unusual day today. Mainly because I took part in something I have never ever in my life done before.
   By appointment I had to abandon the golf to the loving care of the "honesty golfer." Return to my flat by 2 p.m to meet a research director and lighting sound and camera people with all their considerable gear to trundle upstairs.
   One hour to set up lighting and sound. Then two hours of my being seated and questioned by the researcher whilst the cameras rolled.
  The end product will be a DVD or similar. And what, you may well ask, is it all about. It was about Peter Moore, a nasty multiple murderer who was described by the judge that locked him up for life as the most dangerous man alive in Britan. I just happened to know him. He came from Kinmel Bay.
   So what? I can hear you say. Well its all the fault of the forum. Yes, this forum. As far as I can gather there was a post on the forum a couple of years ago writing something about Peter Moore. I put in a reply saying I used to know him. And this research company who specialise in producing long expensive DVDs about mass murderers were starting research into Peter More, googled his name and our very own forum came up and through that they got on to me.
  So, I had no need to go along with them, but I must admit I enjoyed taking part in a long interview like this, But its all you forum people's fault.
 
$3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Michael on July 15, 2015, 08:40:56 pm
  Does anyone remember who it was that first wrote about Peter Moore on the forum? DaveR springs to my mind, but I am possibly wrong. I've looked back on old forum pages but I cannot find it.
  Oh, and to Nemesis. I am very unsure how they make any money but they appear to have plenty. When they first contacted me around 2/3 months ago they gave me a link to two DVDs they had done. The first was about a lovely young lady who was killed somewhere around Wimbledon Common. I immediately recognised the photos of her jogging, it was, still is, national news. I watched this dvd right through the half hour although the subject was MOST DEFINATELY not of my choice. I am a bit like a camel, I bury my head when news items like this come up.
  But this dvd was most professionally done and obviously a whole lot of work had gone into it. I hadn't got the stomach nor the inclination to watch the other one. I don't even know who the victim was, I was just sick of the whole matter.
  However curiosity got the better of me and I gave them the O.K. to film me. I think, repeat think, they are trying to find out is a murderer born a killer, or does he/she develop into one through influences encountered during their life. How do you spell syciastrist but thats what they need.
  One of the questions I was asked I passed on. I just couldn't give an opinion. At that was about being born a killer.
   Not very nice any of it. But the experience being filmed was great, as were the interviewer and the camera crew.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Michael on July 15, 2015, 08:47:28 pm
   Oh, AND why did they come to me, the second or maybe third or fourth poster on this thread two years ago? Why didn't they approach whoever it was with the first post? Maybe DaveR or maybe anyone---I just cannot find it in old viewings.
  I know I should have asked this question a month ago. But I didn't and its too late now
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on July 15, 2015, 09:04:11 pm
   Oh, AND why did they come to me, the second or maybe third or fourth poster on this thread two years ago? Why didn't they approach whoever it was with the first post? Maybe DaveR or maybe anyone---I just cannot find it in old viewings.
  I know I should have asked this question a month ago. But I didn't and its too late now


I don't know how to do the link but if you open page 15 of Stop Press your post about knowing Peter Moore is at the top of the page. DaveR had posted on page 14 that Peter Moore had died.

One link as requested:-))

Mike's post. (http://threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,401.msg36872.html#msg36872)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Michael on July 15, 2015, 10:33:33 pm
  Thanks SDQ for finding this for me. I did,nt help myself by searching around 2 years ago. As always with my memory it was near enough double what I thought i.e. 4 years.
  I now know why they came to me. DaveRs post was just a formal copy. Only Hugo and I claimed to h ave actually known him.
  Another slight mystery has come up. I read DaveRs post saying Peter Moore had died. I immediately thought "I didn't know that." I must have read the post. It wasn't that I had forgotten and this had jogged my memory. It was just I DID NOT KNOW. Rather worrying to me as a sign of some mental decline.
 However I clicked on to a link to some BBC article in a close post, and this said that the prison service said that another Peter Moore had died in jail, and the Kinmel Bay Peter Moore was still alive.
   I'm not really interested whether or not he is alive or dead, but I suppose I should know one way or the other. Anyone any idea? I would have looked a bit of a fool in this documentary if I had said he was still in jail when he was buried four years ago.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on July 16, 2015, 04:41:23 am
It's all there on that page. DaveR put the original post about the death of Peter Moore in Broadmoor and then someone else put a link showing the wrong man had been declared dead by the media and it was actually another man with the same name that had died there.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on February 29, 2016, 11:01:52 am
Just a quick note to say that the forum can also be accessed at www.threetownsforum.com (http://www.threetownsforum.com) after we acquired the domain name following a rather feeble attempt at cybersquatting.
 $3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on February 29, 2016, 11:42:13 am
Just a quick note to say that the forum can also be accessed at www.threetownsforum.com (http://www.threetownsforum.com) after we acquired the domain name following a rather feeble attempt at cybersquatting.
 $3towns$

Cybersquatting conjures up images of doing rude things with robots, what is it?... how did it (or could it have) affected this forum?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on February 29, 2016, 12:34:22 pm
Just a quick note to say that the forum can also be accessed at www.threetownsforum.com (http://www.threetownsforum.com) after we acquired the domain name following a rather feeble attempt at cybersquatting.
 $3towns$

Cybersquatting conjures up images of doing rude things with robots, what is it?... how did it (or could it have) affected this forum?
It's when you register a domain name with a similar name to an existing site in an attempt to fool people into thinking it is associated with the real website, potentially causing confusion amongst web users.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on February 29, 2016, 12:44:48 pm
Some losers just have too much time on their hands.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on September 01, 2016, 10:20:48 am
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE    $3towns$      &well&     
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 01, 2016, 12:53:17 pm
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE    $3towns$      &well&   
Is it really 6 years?!  :o
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 01, 2016, 03:53:27 pm
Time passes quickly when you're having fun :-))
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: mull on December 03, 2016, 11:39:26 am
Ian, Hugo,

What is your view on giving out your email address on the Forum ?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 03, 2016, 02:28:08 pm
It's risky and the forum doesn't allow you to give out any else's email. But you can always pass it to Dave or me and we'll forward it.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: mull on December 03, 2016, 03:33:21 pm
whats the best way to do this ?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 03, 2016, 04:41:06 pm
I'll send you a PM.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 24, 2016, 11:02:17 am
As the big day approaches, from Dave and me

[smg id=3362]
I* %0% VV I*
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 01, 2017, 09:10:14 am
A happy 7th Birthday to the Three Towns Forum and a big thank you to all the members who participate. We're now up to 98,882 Posts.  $good$

 $3towns$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 01, 2017, 09:52:55 am
Congratulations. I don't why but I thought the forum was much older than that.

DaveR, are you able to still post the top 10 posters ?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 01, 2017, 10:22:35 am
We are.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 01, 2017, 10:28:13 am
From top to bottom:

Dave R
Hugo
Me
Fester
Nemesis
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 01, 2017, 10:50:43 am
Top 10, Ian?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 01, 2017, 10:55:21 am
This is the Top 10 for 2017 so far:

Hugo 805
SteveH 554
Ian 442
Fester 355
DaveR 225
Nemesis 192
hollins 182
born2run 164
Bosun 147
Bri Roberts 110
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 01, 2017, 10:57:16 am
Out of interest, here are the top 10 topics on the Forum, in terms of replies posted:

What's Llandudno Like Right Now? 7777
Quiz Time (General Knowledge & Out of Area) 5993
Cafes, Restaurants, Pubs & Takeaways 3562
Quiz Time! 3185
Follow on 2282
Fun for all 2150
Walking 1875
The 3 Towns Coffee centre 1826
Everything to do with Shops 1788
Stop Press 1569
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 01, 2017, 11:00:05 am
....and here are the busiest topics, measured by total number of views. As you can see, the Llandudno topic is heading for 1 million views shortly - amazing!

What's Llandudno Like Right Now? 978,393
Quiz Time (General Knowledge & Out of Area) 448,573
Cafes, Restaurants, Pubs & Takeaways 391,759
Quiz Time! 292,043
Walking 259,302
Everything to do with Shops 233,807
Local Eyesores 225,477
Everything to do with Conwy 222,521
Everything to do with Colwyn Bay 222,185
The 3 Towns Coffee centre 215,435
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on September 01, 2017, 02:23:28 pm
Very interesting.

Thank you, DaveR.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on September 01, 2017, 09:21:11 pm
Surely it's only the NEW forum that's 7 years old?
I used to look in on the 'Forum' before I lived in Llandudno, circa 2008, if not earlier.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on September 02, 2017, 10:38:34 am
Surely it's only the NEW forum that's 7 years old?
I used to look in on the 'Forum' before I lived in Llandudno, circa 2008, if not earlier.
That's correct. There was another forum previously, unconnected to this one.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on September 02, 2017, 01:46:48 pm
Surely it's only the NEW forum that's 7 years old?
I used to look in on the 'Forum' before I lived in Llandudno, circa 2008, if not earlier.
That's correct. There was another forum previously, unconnected to this one.

Before the software changed to this one, didn't you moderate the other one?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 07, 2018, 10:55:24 am
I noticed that the Forum wasn’t accessible for a good few hours late afternoon yesterday.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on April 07, 2018, 01:41:27 pm
Surely it's only the NEW forum that's 7 years old?
I used to look in on the 'Forum' before I lived in Llandudno, circa 2008, if not earlier.
That's correct. There was another forum previously, unconnected to this one.

Seem to have forgotten the original name, but I was one of the first members, but not as Nemesis. Many moons ago !! :o
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 15, 2018, 05:54:57 pm
Why is the Forum malfunctioning?
It demands my password each time,
It won’t obey the ‘keep me logged in’ instruction
It throws adverts at me, even when I do get logged in.

The last time this happened we lost a couple of good, long term members, who had long since forgotten their passwords and never bothered with the forum after that.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 15, 2018, 06:27:29 pm
The more I search for an answer, the more i realise thats its not the Forum, its an update malfunction on Apple devices.
Its linked to very old apps or links not being supported in latest IS 11.03 version.

So, I’ve deleted the link and searched for the forum again via Google.
Sadly, this doesn’t fix the ‘keep me logged in’ error.
Also, I can no longer shortcut the Forum to my front screen.
So, unless anyone knows a fix, I won’t be able to pop in much, if at all any longer.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 15, 2018, 06:36:23 pm
It might be to do with your member group. I've changed something so let's see what happens.  What device do you use for the forum? And what browser?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 15, 2018, 06:50:54 pm
Ah!  That’s kept me logged in, and adverts have gone.
I don’t know what a member group is?
But.... still no facility to add the Forum to my home screen.
I use my iPad Air, and Google browser.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 15, 2018, 06:53:42 pm
You mean Chrome?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 15, 2018, 06:55:20 pm
Not sure if it’s Chrome, it doesn’t say chrome.

But, I’ve just browsed the Forum on safari.
That lets me save to home screen, but logs me off continually, and the adverts are back.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 16, 2018, 08:16:52 am
That suggests the issue is with cookies on your machine.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 16, 2018, 08:04:09 pm
That suggests the issue is with cookies on your machine.

Yes, but it’s an iPad, and I have no idea what to do about it.
Several sites are affected, others are painfully slow.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 17, 2018, 07:03:36 am
You might need to connect to iTunes and reinstall the iOS.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 10:59:06 am
Apologies for the forum being down.  We think it's now sorted, but please report any idiosyncratic behaviour, in case it isn't  :rage:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:00:08 am
Well there's one bit of odd behaviour...  I'll try to sort that.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on April 18, 2018, 11:04:13 am
On mine I have thousands of   ££$   on every page, going back to the beginning.

Checking the preview for this message it's showing 7   ££$   now 11

Also different set of emoj's showing on reply page
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:06:10 am
Yes....it seems to be interpreting the 'space' symbol as a smiley.  I'll change smiley sets to see if that helps.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bellringer on April 18, 2018, 11:16:17 am
I have had problems accessing the Forum since yesterday on my iPad, but suddenly this morning all seems ok again.

Oh the Good Luck thing came up when I saved the post.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:20:30 am
The php wasn't high enough for us to upgrade to the most secure version, so it just fell over. We had to change that and then repair the forum itself.  Getting rid of that smiley is the next job.

     test 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:21:12 am
   .
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:22:24 am
Well, I've found out the system is currently interpreting the space bar as the good luck smiley.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:23:11 am
test
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:23:33 am
I think that's solved it - I think. For the moment I've had to remove the option to select your own smiley set - if anyone knew you had that option :-)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on April 18, 2018, 11:26:35 am
I am clear, however the emoj's selection on the reply page is only showing 16 also "MORE" has disappeared
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 11:36:31 am
That's right.  We'll slowly add the sets back in, but if you can manage on the restricted set for the moment I'll be very, very grateful :-)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on April 18, 2018, 12:01:54 pm
I'll do my best  ;)    I was going to give you a "Thumbs up" or a "Well done" even a "Thanks" but you will have to make do with  :P
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 01:16:20 pm
Thanks, Steve. It's been interesting.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 18, 2018, 07:04:39 pm
Folks: don't worry if smileys start appearing where they shouldn't. I'm trying to restore our full set and that takes a bit of fiddling.  Thanks for your patience..
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Mike on April 27, 2018, 07:15:42 pm
My saved login in my browser didn't work anymore since the crash. I've saved again and see that the old one was for
http://threetownsforum.co.uk (http://threetownsforum.co.uk)
and the new one is for
http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk (http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk)

My bookmark/shortcut is for http://threetownsforum.co.uk (http://threetownsforum.co.uk) but it now redirects to http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk (http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk) so assume this new redirect is the cause.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 27, 2018, 07:44:05 pm
Shouldn't be. The site hasn't moved and the 'www.' prefix isn't really used these days, as there are no rules that it has to be. Either will work, so I'd simply bookmark the log in page again.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 28, 2018, 11:35:21 pm
My saved log in doesn’t work either.
More annoyingly, when I do log in, it says I’ve been timed out....so I have to log in twice.
The Forum is one of a few sites, including BBC News, which is doing this to me ever since I upgraded my iPad to version 11.3
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: snowcap on April 29, 2018, 12:04:56 am
i have to do the same first log in says timed out second one ok but only takes a second to log in
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on April 29, 2018, 04:58:55 pm
My saved log in doesn’t work either.
More annoyingly, when I do log in, it says I’ve been timed out....so I have to log in twice.
The Forum is one of a few sites, including BBC News, which is doing this to me ever since I upgraded my iPad to version 11.3


I’m using 11.3 without any problem. I leave the page open in Safari and just select the tab when I want to visit the site and it keeps me logged in.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on April 29, 2018, 07:11:49 pm
Love your avatar SDQ, made me chuckle!
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 30, 2018, 12:27:54 am
My saved log in doesn’t work either.
More annoyingly, when I do log in, it says I’ve been timed out....so I have to log in twice.
The Forum is one of a few sites, including BBC News, which is doing this to me ever since I upgraded my iPad to version 11.3


I’m using 11.3 without any problem. I leave the page open in Safari and just select the tab when I want to visit the site and it keeps me logged in.
Can you do that on iPad though?
I’ll see if that works.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: squigglev2 on April 30, 2018, 03:22:01 pm
You may have found an answer but as another thought.  I don’t know the device or OS but going by past experience where I helped out on a couple of sites, I’d say a lot of this type of problem is caused by corrupt cookies or cache.  Can you clear the old data?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on April 30, 2018, 06:05:15 pm
My saved log in doesn’t work either.
More annoyingly, when I do log in, it says I’ve been timed out....so I have to log in twice.
The Forum is one of a few sites, including BBC News, which is doing this to me ever since I upgraded my iPad to version 11.3


I’m using 11.3 without any problem. I leave the page open in Safari and just select the tab when I want to visit the site and it keeps me logged in.
Can you do that on iPad though?
I’ll see if that works.


Sorry, should have said I was using an iPad Pro.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on April 30, 2018, 11:08:51 pm
You may have found an answer but as another thought.  I don’t know the device or OS but going by past experience where I helped out on a couple of sites, I’d say a lot of this type of problem is caused by corrupt cookies or cache.  Can you clear the old data?

Not on an iPad Squiggle, only on laptops I believe.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 01, 2018, 07:11:18 am
That's not strictly true...  You can connect an iPad up to a computer running iTunes, then access things through the iTunes interface. It's not, however, that easy to do what you want, but a system reset of the iPad might sort things out.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SDQ on May 01, 2018, 11:42:01 am
You may have found an answer but as another thought.  I don’t know the device or OS but going by past experience where I helped out on a couple of sites, I’d say a lot of this type of problem is caused by corrupt cookies or cache.  Can you clear the old data?

Not on an iPad Squiggle, only on laptops I believe.


https://support.apple.com/en-gb/HT201265
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on July 01, 2018, 12:22:54 pm
Just noticed the "personal message" symbol, can you explain please.  Ta.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on July 02, 2018, 04:43:14 pm
If you want to send another member a message thtat you don't want to make public, you can choose 'send personal message', Steve.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on July 02, 2018, 11:18:31 pm
I didn’t think that worked anymore?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on July 03, 2018, 03:43:23 pm
It's been reinstated.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Fester on July 04, 2018, 08:59:35 pm
It's been reinstated.

😱😱
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 06, 2018, 08:52:43 am
Apologies for yesterday's outage.  Heart - our hosting provider - fell over and was offline for 24 hours. In this day and age 24 hours outage is absurd. Trouble is Heart is the O'Reilly of internet hosts...


https://www.theregister.co.uk/2018/11/05/heart_internet_ushers_in_monday_with_big_portion_of_fail/ (https://www.theregister.co.uk/2018/11/05/heart_internet_ushers_in_monday_with_big_portion_of_fail/)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on November 06, 2018, 09:01:21 am
Thanks for letting us know Ian,  I had been trying to get on during the day and thought my computer was playing up.   I had an e-mail from Mull later and he had been trying to do the same.
I'm pleased it's back online
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: squigglev2 on November 06, 2018, 10:03:28 am
Apologies for yesterday's outage.  Heart - our hosting provider - fell over and was offline for 24 hours. In this day and age 24 hours outage is absurd. Trouble is Heart is the O'Reilly of internet hosts...

Looking at their face book page as well, it looks as if a fair number, including resellers are mightily fed up with Heart. It sounds as if they were OK until a takeover.

Could be worse though, one host I used just packed up over night, which cause me some additional hassle as my domain names (just two) were registered with them and I used their email. It took a bit of time to regain control of the domains to change DNS to get going again...

Whatever, it's incredibly frustrating being down that length of time, by the sound of things getting nothing in the way of updates from the provider, and being powerless, isn't it?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Meleri on November 06, 2018, 03:02:19 pm
I'm a bit concerned as my address bar has an exclamation mark in a circle and it's stating Not Secure when I'm on the site, what does that mean?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: TBJ on November 06, 2018, 04:40:34 pm
Your system stat counter has a security risk.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: squigglev2 on November 06, 2018, 05:47:10 pm
I'm a bit concerned as my address bar has an exclamation mark in a circle and it's stating Not Secure when I'm on the site, what does that mean?


For a different take...

The connection is an insecure http one rather than an encrypted http one. This means your data could be intercepted and read by third parties. It’s up to you to assess but the greatest risks might be where you make financial transactions and I wouldn’t use bank or online shopping at all without a secure connection.

A forum probably carries less risk but bear in mind you are posting personal information even if it’s only log in details.  Some will suggest that all sites should be https to make it harder for the governments, etc, to monitor...

Another consideration is where you are connecting from. Your home LAN is safer than an open wifi hotspot…

I notice that this forum does offer a https connection but there is a warning for the SSL certificate (needed for https) . It’s possibly something to do with a certificate being shared over a few of the host IPs pages rather than a dedicated one or something along those.  It’s probably best to let Ian or someone clarify this situation.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: squigglev2 on November 06, 2018, 05:48:48 pm

The connection is an insecure http one rather than an encrypted http one.

Should read The connection is an insecure http one rather than an encrypted https one.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 06, 2018, 05:58:46 pm
Each time a new browser is issued it comes with increasingly scary warnings. In reality, however, as long as we're not sharing personal details (and we don't) this only affects those who need secure connections. The sad reality is that https is not that foolproof; if you want to stay totally safe, never go on the internet is the best advice. Apart from that, common-sense is the best protection when using the internet.  Even the best VPNs don't offer perfect security.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Meleri on November 07, 2018, 05:14:20 pm
Thanks for all the advice, Mr M has had a look at the security and it has assured us the site is OK  :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on December 07, 2018, 08:15:33 am
We don't say these things often enough, but on this site we owe a debt to SteveH, our News hound who, through his prodigious selection and regular searching of the broadsheets keeps us alerted to any and all news developments locally.

Thanks, Steve;  the forum would be far poorer without you.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on December 07, 2018, 03:22:25 pm
Yes, credit where credits due.   I look forward to reading Steve's postings as they bring me up to date with local events that I might otherwise have missed.
I enjoy reading other contributions he makes and in particular when I do a quiz question because I know that Steve will put a lot of effort into finding the answer as not every question is easy      ;D
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on December 07, 2018, 04:15:32 pm
Thank you Ian, very much appreciated, and thank you to, hugo, although your quizzes drive me crazy, I look forward to the challenge. ;)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 20, 2019, 07:05:40 pm
I've reinstated the smiley sets that have been missing for so long. Please let me know if there are any problems.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on March 20, 2019, 07:17:22 pm
I've reinstated the smiley sets that have been missing for so long. Please let me know if there are any problems.

 $3towns$     &well&     $good$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 19, 2020, 09:47:05 am
One thing that's emerging at the moment is just how valuable forums like this one can be, during a unique time in the UK. It allows for us all to stay in touch with one another, chatter freely and exchange information.

Social media gets slated a great deal, often rightly so, but in more than twenty years of using various types I believe this forum has to be one of the most grounded, most sensible and sanest forums around. And that's down to all of you–the members, for keeping it that way. Thanks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: llandudnotrust on March 19, 2020, 11:07:06 am
Well said and please carry on
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Quiggs on March 19, 2020, 12:27:18 pm
To think I’m regarded amongst the most grounded and sanest around has bucked me up no end.   $thanx$
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Blongb on March 19, 2020, 12:49:10 pm
Ian, if the ground rules are clearly laid out ,followed and "administered" properly, then it should come as no surprise when its successful. Thank you so very much for all the effort you have put in over the years. It's greatly appreciated. &well&
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on March 19, 2020, 03:56:14 pm
The one quality this forum and our members has is integrity which social media often sadly lacks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on March 19, 2020, 06:28:35 pm
I think it's also important to add the the forum has become a real team, with some taking on roles in the History and Genealogy topics, the News Editor and of course the continuous flow of useful local information. There are, for instance, 97 people online at the moment.  So a lot of folk reading everything that's posted.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on April 09, 2020, 11:06:28 am
We're seeing a steady flow of new member applications at the moment so I'd just like to take a moment and welcome all the new members who've joined recently onto the forum. We've made it difficult to get on, as there are questions which do demand a fair bit of local knowledge, but that was necessary as we had a minor invasion of Russian spammers some while back. So welcome aboard and please don't feel nervous about contributing.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on April 09, 2020, 03:24:43 pm
Welcome all the newbies. I was one of the very original members back in C.O.'s time and, although I have never met most people it is nice to exchange opinions with everyone. Hope some new people will have some great contributions to make. Cheers all and stay safe.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 05, 2020, 10:58:22 am
We've had 14 member applications which are mainly from Russia and similar places.  So for the moment I've disabled new member registrations. If you know of anyone who wants to become a member, please PM me and I'll arrange to register them.  Thanks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 11, 2020, 04:26:09 pm
I've installed a new modification for those who enjoy quizzes and riddles...

It's the spoiler tag [smg id=4134] which appears when you compose a post and, as you can see it's directly beneath the B button on the line of buttons that appears above when you create your post.

It works like this: If you're answering a quiz question but don't want to spoil it for others, then mouse-over / select the answer and click the spoiler tag.

For example, to hide "Fred"  I simply double click "[spoiler]Fred[/spoiler]" and click the tag.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on October 21, 2021, 08:03:48 pm
Our hosting service is doing major updates and servicing at the moment, which is why service is extremely slow. Sorry about that.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 31, 2022, 11:00:12 am
To all Members:

You may have noticed we've been down for a few days. That's been caused by our hosting providers forcing us to upgrade our php version and having to bring the forum itself up to date. This is the new forum, which is missing the old photo gallery, which had become extremely out of date and was causing the forum to crash. However, we're now back and hopefully back for good!

Apologies again.

Ian & DaveR.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on May 31, 2022, 11:03:44 am
Welcome back.

Can you please explain how the Photo Gallery had become extremely out-of-date?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 31, 2022, 11:13:38 am
It wasn't the photos, Bri; it was the actual gallery software that had aged and hasn't been upgradable for some time. It was adequate running it as long we didn't upgrade the forum version of php but once we were forced to that was it.

I suspect the photos themselves are still there, but I'll need to download the entire database and see if they are. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on May 31, 2022, 01:56:32 pm
Because we no longer have our image gallery, this is the easiest option (https://imgbb.com/) to upload pics onto the forum.

It's completely free; ignore the images about payment.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on May 31, 2022, 05:05:37 pm
I have to confess...it was I that broke the forum by trying to run the upgrade.  :(

Unfortunately, the forum software was becoming very out of date, which results in increased security risks etc. Because we (ok, I  ;D ) had added new features over the years, like the photo gallery, it made upgrading the forum software extremely difficult and resulted in the software breaking when I ran the upgrade. Ian has had to reinstall the software (taking the opportunity to upgrade it to the latest version) and upload all the old posts etc to get the forum working again.

This means that certain features will be missing. Adding back a photo gallery at some point would certainly be nice and if you notice a particular feature missing that would think should be reinstalled, please let us know on here.

Dave
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 02, 2022, 11:07:41 am
Whilst I am able to visit the forum once again, I have been informed by a few members that they still cannot get into the site and also receiving a message that it is unsafe to do so.

As a consequence, I have been requested to post this message.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 02, 2022, 12:42:26 pm
The system refuses to recognise the fttps:// at the start of the URL and sends out a false warning message.  It's perfectly safe, and there's still a lot of work going on behind the scenes to try to restore it completely.  We've set up a new images board, so it ought to be possible to use that to post pics, as soon as we have it working properly.

So do please encourage everyone to come back in; the place is starting to gather dust :-)

I'm a bit concerned about those who claim they can't get back in. If you can post details of a couple of those cases, Bri, I'll get on it right away. 
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 02, 2022, 02:13:27 pm
I am in now, after system refusing entry, many times, but had to reapply for new password, thanks for the good work getting the Forum restored, hope the others get sorted soon........
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 02, 2022, 05:19:41 pm
Good to see you, Steve. I suspect a file might have become corrupted, which is why some folk are experiencing difficulties.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 03, 2022, 06:44:56 am

I'm a bit concerned about those who claim they can't get back in. If you can post details of a couple of those cases, Bri, I'll get on it right away.

Hi Ian,

Here are a couple of recent messages between me and Meleri:

I have heard back from Hugo & he is getting the same message as me that it's unsafe & can't get on. I will try sending Ian a message but in the meantime I would be very grateful if you could mention on the forum that some of the forum members are still having problems accessing the site. Thanks for offering to do this for me.

Thanks very much Brian. I did try to send an email to Ian but the email was sent back, so I expect we will just have to be patient & hope someone will act on your message.




Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 03, 2022, 08:47:27 am
I suspect that's two issues. One is some passwords seem to have been 'lost'; why, I have no idea. Since we don't know what folks' passwords are I can send out a temporary one, and Meleri can then change it.  I'll send one to Meleri today.

The second issue  - this warning that the site might be unsafe - is being generated by error.  It's down to Heart's server which hasn't yet decided that it's actually incorrect. I seem to get this type of message all the time.  What's silly is that it's only sent if it believes you're not using a site which starts with "https", and which we are.  The really daft thing is that "https" ceased being trustworthy many years ago.

Thanks for  acting as  go-between, Bri.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 03, 2022, 10:31:23 am
No end to the fun. The reason some have been unable to get in with their old passwords is simply because the new system had overwritten our settings.  I've now changed them and everyone should be able to get back in.

On an associated note, I managed to send out a temporary password for Meleri to every forum member.  I've changed Meleri's password again and have emailed her the new one.

Thanks for your patience.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Robert2020 on June 03, 2022, 08:39:56 pm
Hi, thanks for your work in getting the site back up....

First it didn't accept my login so I requested via email to create a new password but having tried it three times I didn't get an email back...you may wish to check out that bit of the system in case others are requesting a new password email and failing to get the email.
I've  used my original password today and its working.....so thanks for restoring that data base.
The other issue I've found is that once I click the forum 'enter' word from the main page I don't get the page layout design ....just the text listed so maybe a glitch in there as well

Regards
Rob
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 04, 2022, 12:15:19 am
Thanks, Rob; I'll take a peek at that tomorrow.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 04, 2022, 01:36:48 am
Ian,
I have received this email from Hugo. Can you please let me have a reply to pass onto Hugo

Hi Bri
Sorry to bother you but Xxx from Xxx said that you advised her that the Three Towns Forum is up and running.

I've tried numerous times but can never get back to the original page for the site.   I do get  a screen up but when I press on the Home page another notice appears saying that the site is not private so I don't go any further with it.

Do you know what has happened with the forum?


Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 04, 2022, 08:38:07 am
It's this annoying bug where the system isn't recognising that we are a secure site. I'll contact Hugo directly. Thanks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on June 04, 2022, 09:14:10 am
I am finally in after going through the same procedure as Robert 2020.
These are the messages we are getting.
1. I pressed advanced
2. Pressed proceed to 3 towns forum unsafe
3. Message saying it doesn't recognise password

It doesn't recognise your password at first and the "forgot password, we'll email you with a form to change password" isn't working.
I deleted the remembered password and then typed it in again and eventually it worked.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: rhuddlan on June 04, 2022, 09:33:35 am
I decided to click on advanced ( admittedly very hesitantly) and then things seemed to return to normal.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 04, 2022, 09:55:50 am
I've managed to get in to the site now but can't explain how I did it.     It's been a frustrating few days as I like to look at the forum every day to see what is going on.
Is there any way in which the system can be made easier and go back to how it was before?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 04, 2022, 11:03:52 am
We are trying to do that, Hugo.  The problem was that the software had increased the security level of the password, so anyone who had a shortish password with ordinary characters was simply locked out.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 04, 2022, 11:09:33 am
We've had to reinstall the entire database, and that seems to have caused some issues. I suspect it'll settle down over time.

Crikey, Hollins! They were unsettling messages, at the very least. But I can reassure everyone that the site is still secure, as evidenced by the leading "https" in the URL. Or as secure as "https" can be.  The other issue is that some folk will have had updates to their browsers.  I tend to use mainly Firefox, and initially that had some issues. It should all improve with time.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 04, 2022, 12:25:24 pm
Thanks very much Ian for all the work you have done to sort the problems out.      I've just clicked on my shortcut and the opening screen is as it was before and so much easier for people like me who are not computer literate         $thanx$
I'm pleased that it's back to normal now so I can enjoy the forum again as I've missed it this week
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 04, 2022, 12:38:34 pm
Your absence has been noted, Hugo.

Any more absences then detention will be an option.

😂
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 04, 2022, 12:55:50 pm
I'remember getting a lot of detention in John Bright's School so I'll try and be a good boy from now on     ;)     

Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on June 04, 2022, 01:15:00 pm
Ian The heading on the forum page on my computer is showing a red warning triangle followed by NOT SECURE in red and then https also in red with a line through it crossing it out.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 04, 2022, 05:33:34 pm
It's starting to look like an error at Heart's end.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Meleri on June 06, 2022, 02:19:47 pm
At last I'm on & really missed you all  :)

Thanks very much to Hugo & Bri Roberts for all the suggestions & emails to help getting me back on the forum.

In the end I changed my password & that worked as I see it did for Hollins & Robert 2020 too.

It's still showing the red warning as Hollins mentions.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 06, 2022, 03:24:45 pm
I'm please to see you back on line.     
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 06, 2022, 03:36:35 pm
Good to see you, Meleri.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 06, 2022, 04:06:10 pm
Meleri, Glad you got sorted.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: DaveR on June 07, 2022, 12:47:31 pm
Hi all,

I have implemented a fix to solve the various  'site not secure' problems and error messages. Please let us know if it is working ok for you now.

Dave
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 07, 2022, 01:01:09 pm
Still showing "Not secure" .......
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hammy on June 07, 2022, 07:57:18 pm
DaveR,
Still showing 'Not secure' but the redscript 'https' has disappeared and my login now auto fills name and password again, rather than just name which it has done for the last few  days.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 08, 2022, 09:48:48 am
DaveR,
Still showing 'Not secure' but the redscript 'https' has disappeared and my login now auto fills name and password again, rather than just name which it has done for the last few  days.

As Hammy's ....... red script disappeared, fills name on auto, but will not accept old password, having to use new password on manual, no great problem.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2022, 09:50:49 am
A favour, folks: could you all copy the URL and past it as is in here, please?  There's somehting I need to check.

Thanks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 08, 2022, 10:11:47 am
A favour, folks: could you all copy the URL and past it as is in here, please?  There's somehting I need to check.
Thanks.
Hope this helps....click on photo improves image ?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2022, 11:27:24 am
Thanks, Steve. That's perfect.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Bri Roberts on June 08, 2022, 11:43:51 am
Like this, Ian?

http://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 08, 2022, 12:59:54 pm
I'm not having trouble now viewing the Forum but I've just had an e-mail from Mull and he cannot get the reply button on his screen
Has anyone else had this problem and if so how did they get around the problem?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Robert2020 on June 08, 2022, 03:05:37 pm
Screen shot attached
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hugo on June 08, 2022, 03:27:48 pm
Thanks Robert for that info and I'll pass it on.      I've had a look at my screen and I can see the reply button on the top right of the screen but when I sign in and look at any last posting the reply button is underneath the posting and I use that button to post something

I used to have similar problems when Windows 10 ever did an update and my photos especially were affected by the update
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 08, 2022, 04:16:57 pm
My emojis function is back up on the main page, but the [more] page still gobbledegook, also I posted two photos today, when I click on them I get a fantastic enlarged photo, I have worked out, that it might be because I have altered the original by cropping/resizing, other photos as normal.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 08, 2022, 05:54:03 pm
Thanks, folks.

Bri's screen shows a padlock, which suggests https is there.  The other two don't, but mine does. Something ain't right.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on June 08, 2022, 10:43:57 pm
Mine is the same as Robert's and different from Bri's.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 09, 2022, 12:15:38 am
so no http:// or https://, then?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: hollins on June 09, 2022, 08:21:49 am
No. Just the now black warning triangle and Not secure at the beginning.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 09, 2022, 10:25:53 am
Right.  Thanks.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Hammy on June 09, 2022, 08:34:26 pm
Ian,
And that is the same for me,
 'not secure' and no http:// or https://,
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 10, 2022, 09:13:31 am
Okay.  Thanks, everyone.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 10, 2022, 10:04:53 am
Ian, back in again, it was a simple fix from my end, just pressed "continue to site" the new type warning, put me off.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 10, 2022, 12:02:00 pm
There seem to be at least two things going on here. One is that it's the browser that issues the warning, and different browsers have different tolerances. The second is that my entry url shows as

https://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?

so the browser thinks it's an https site.  Odd.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 10, 2022, 01:15:44 pm
Ian, back in again, it was a simple fix from my end, just pressed "continue to site" the new type warning, put me off.

Ian, I sent you a PM about being locked out again, which you did not receive, reason for above message, explanation below ! !

The connection to www.threetownsforum.co.uk is not secure
You are seeing this warning because this site does not support HTTPS. Learn more

Received this .......

Delivery has failed to these recipients or groups:

Three Towns Forum
Your message couldn't be delivered. Despite repeated attempts to deliver your message, querying the Domain Name System (DNS) for the recipient's domain location information failed.

For more information and tips to fix this issue see this article:
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Cambrian on June 10, 2022, 04:34:46 pm
My access has been working ok with no problems - except for the warning last week which went when Ian initially sorted the issue.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on June 10, 2022, 05:18:01 pm
Good.  Steve: looks like we have anther problem.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on June 10, 2022, 06:23:24 pm
I appear to be back with the Forum afte being denied access due to a 'safety issue' for a week ! Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on June 11, 2022, 09:42:35 am
Glad you got sorted, Nem.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on August 25, 2022, 10:18:18 am
My LIKE facility has not worked since we had the glitch, is it just me or ?
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Nemesis on August 25, 2022, 11:15:31 am
Same here, thought it had been ditched.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on August 25, 2022, 11:37:13 am
Nope.  Just haven't yet got round to reinstalling it.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on August 30, 2022, 07:42:48 pm
Folks:  if you're a Management Board Member (in other words, you share the cost of hosting this forum) then please visit the general management section and this topic specifically.  (https://www.threetownsforum.co.uk/forum/index.php?board=36.0).

If you're simply visiting and would like to contribute to the cost of running this place, then please message me so I can let you know the details.

Thus far I've received around 60.00 which is less than a third of what it costs.

Thanks for your time.

Ian
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pili Pala on September 27, 2022, 07:02:59 pm
I don't seem to be able to send PMs, but if you're still looking for contributions towards running costs, I'd like to help a little :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on September 28, 2022, 09:29:52 am
Thanks for that, Pili.  I've changed your membership group so you should now be able to send PMs. You will also be able to view the management board, which has all he details you need to make a contribution.

Ian
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on September 28, 2022, 10:25:13 am
Welcome to the board Pili Pala.......
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Pili Pala on September 28, 2022, 06:50:34 pm
Thanks for that, Pili.  I've changed your membership group so you should now be able to send PMs. You will also be able to view the management board, which has all he details you need to make a contribution.

Ian

Brilliant, thank you. I'll head over there now.

Welcome to the board Pili Pala.......

Thank you :)
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 01, 2022, 10:18:04 am
I have today permanently suspended Hozz for serious breaches of the Forum Ts and Cs.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: Ian on November 11, 2022, 11:15:02 am
I have finally managed to get the Like button working again.
Title: Re: System Announcements
Post by: SteveH on November 11, 2022, 11:42:08 am
 $good$